The BBC Proms has confirmed that singer Sam Smith will be among the performers at this year's event despite a string of controversial on-stage performances.
The 31-year-old - who is non-binary and uses "they/them" pronouns - was at the centre of an Ofcom storm last year due to a raunchy performance at the BRIT Awards and has been accused of using "Satanic" symbolism during stage routines.
Smith will perform at a concert for the Proms on August 2 alongside an orchestra in what will be the singer's only UK performance of the year.
While the risque gigs of previous months have hit headlines, BBC Radio 3 controller Sam Jackson has insisted Smith's Proms performance will be "appropriate".
He said, according to the Daily Mail: "I think what you'll see is a performance that is entirely appropriate for the Proms and entirely appropriate for the audience in attendance.
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"The focus will be on Sam Smith and their music and there will be a focus on the unique orchestral arrangement, and the fact that this will be the only opportunity to see Sam Smith in the UK this year.
Sam Smith will perform at this year's The Proms
GETTY
"This is very much a Prom – it's not Sam Smith at the Royal Albert Hall. The look and feel will be entirely appropriate for that festival."
But this hasn't stopped critics from slamming the BBC for adding a singer whose previous concerts have been marred in controversy to the Proms line-up.
Soon after Smith's spot in the line-up was confirmed, X, formerly Twitter, was awash with complaints - with some fellow famous faces hitting out at the decision.
Henry Bolton, former UKIP leader, took to the social media site to slam: "The plan for Sam Smith to headline the @bbcproms is a disgusting insult to Britain.
"I'm absolutely delighted to announce that I will be a part of the BBC Proms 2024 programme 🤍
— SAM SMITH (@samsmith) April 25, 2024
On August 2nd, we will be putting on such a special show. It's time to celebrate... x"@BBC @bbcproms pic.twitter.com/Oo0deSe16z
"The BBC are doing all they can to make a mockery of Britain, our history, culture and identity."
Others on the social media site included one Proms fan who fumed: "Oh dear- standards dropping even further at the BBC."
"The BBC putting Sam Smith on the proms. Defund... now," argued another before a third weighed in: "Sam Smith at the proms, so happy I don't watch BBC." (sic)
Meanwhile, political commentator Christine Hamilton was embroiled in an explosive clash on Thursday's Patrick Christys Tonight on GB News over Smith's announcement.
She clashed with drag queen and ex-Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK contestant Divina De Campo as Hamilton raged: "This is deliberately provocative by the BBC. It’s a third rate PR stunt that will alienate their core viewers. He’s a mediocre singer at best.
"I just hope this is the final nail in the BBC licence fee coffin. They have broadcast this to say, 'This will be the only opportunity to see him this year in the UK'... I just hope we won’t have to see him at all.
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Sam Smith has been accused of using Satanic symbols during shows
GETTY
"People will turn off in their droves. If this is the best the BBC can produce for the Proms, which is a classical music festival, which is what it is. It’s ridiculous. Utterly ridiculous."
Despite the furore from many, Smith has ignored the backlash and released a statement about the Proms.
"I'm absolutely delighted to announce that I will be a part of the BBC Proms 2024 programme [love heart emoji]," Smith penned on X. "On August 2nd, we will be putting on such a special show. It's time to celebrate... x."
Several supporters jumped to the singer's defence in response, including one who wrote: "Amazing Sam. Congrats on your 10th Anniversary of 'In The Lonely Hour'. This show will be Great for sure!!! Such Beautiful News!!! we love you Sam."
And a second agreed: "The idea of listening to you singing In The Lonely Hour again makes me wanna sob! This show is going to be absolutely beautiful." (sic)
GB News has contacted the BBC for comment regarding the reception to Smith's inclusion.
